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JuJu Watkins isn’t one to dwell on accolades, even as they pile up during her young career. “I think I just keep a positive mentality, always trying to get better, and be humble,” the 19-year-old sophomore said earlier this year. But humility aside, Watkins added a historic achievement to her résumé, scoring a program-record 40 points in USC’s dominant victory over California Baptist.

Despite Watkins’ standout performanceUSC head coach Lindsay Gottlieb chose to emphasize team effort over individual success in her post-game remarks. Sitting beside Watkins during the presser, Gottlieb said, “Obviously, what a night from the three-point line, but I loved it. Just like it felt so joyous. They were all in rhythm. You know, we know how well she can shoot the ball, and just for her to see them go down like that is fun. But I thought the energy of the team was really the winner.

Watkins’ performance was extraordinary. Her 9 three-pointers set a new benchmark for USC’s women’s basketball program, falling just one shy of the men’s team record. Remarkably, Watkins scored just five points in the first quarter before turning it up a notch. The game also saw Watkins surpass 1,000 career points in just 38 games-the fourth-fastest in NCAA Division I women’s basketball history.

While Watkins’ individual achievement stood out, Gottlieb’s emphasis on teamwork wasn’t misplaced. Kiki Irafen delivered an impressive 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Talia von Oelhoffen contributed 14 points, 3 rebounds, and 6 assists in just 25 minutes of play. Together, the Trojans secured a commanding 94-52 victory, their third consecutive win and seventh of the season.

Lindsay Gottlieb envisions ownership potential for JuJu Watkins

Watkins’ performance was lauded by fans and analysts alike, but Gottlieb’s grounded perspective is a reflection of her broader aspirations for her star player. In an interview with The Los Angeles Times earlier this season, Gottlieb expressed her desire to guide Watkins not just as an athlete, but as an individual with limitless potential. “I want to get out of her way and let her be the artist, creative basketball player she is,” Gottlieb said.

But the coach’s vision for Watkins goes beyond the court. “I’m a crazy kind of thinker,”Gottlieb added. “I want [JuJu] to own something one day. Not just play in the WNBA-own a team.

Watkins wouldn’t be the first to make the leap from player to owner. WNBA legends like Sue Bird and Renee Montgomery have already paved the way. Bird joined the Seattle Storm ownership group earlier this year, and Montgomery became part of the investor group that acquired the Atlanta Dream in 2021. Watkins’ energy and talent suggest that such a future isn’t far-fetched, but first, she’ll need to solidify her legacy in the WNBA.

As USC continues its season, Watkins’ historic 40-point night will remain a milestone, but her focus-and that of her coach-remains on what’s next. For Watkins, the sky’s the limit, and her journey is just beginning.